Chuck Varga, one of the founding members of Gwar and the performer behind The Sexecutioner from 1985 through 2022, is fighting cancer. As he undergoes treatment, Chuck and his wife, Bambi, are dealing with significant medical expenses along with the personal and financial strain that comes with his illness.
To help ease that burden, Gwar has launched a fundraising campaign to assist with the growing costs of Chuck’s care. Donations will go toward cancer treatments, hospice care, specialized medical equipment, and additional nursing support. The fundraiser will also help cover the expenses of keeping the couple’s Brooklyn apartment while Bambi remains away from work to care for Chuck full-time.
According to the band, the campaign is intended to help Chuck receive the care and comfort he needs while also providing financial relief for Bambi as she continues to support him through the challenges ahead.
Supporters can also purchase exclusive Chuck Varga merchandise produced specifically for the fundraiser. Among the items available is a new T-shirt featuring artwork created by Chuck himself, giving fans a chance to own a unique piece connected to his legacy with Gwar while contributing to the campaign.
The fundraiser also includes an auction for The Sexecutioner’s Axe, the signature weapon carried by Chuck’s iconic stage character for nearly 40 years. The one-of-a-kind prop will go to the highest bidder, with all proceeds benefiting Chuck and Bambi.
For more than four decades, Chuck Varga played a major role in shaping Gwar. As a performer, artist, creator and founding member, he helped build the band’s distinctive identity and contributed to its lasting place in heavy music. His artwork, imagination and commitment have influenced generations of fans and artists.
Gwar member Bob Gorman, better known as Bonesnapper, reflected on Chuck’s impact: “Chuck Varga‘s contributions to the Gwar and Slave Pit collective are enormous. The influence of his illustrations, character designs, performances, and artistic vision can still be felt throughout Gwar today. Chuck‘s over-the-top underground art aesthetic helped define an entire universe and inspired generations of artists and fans around the world. His legacy will remain with us forever, and we hope this fundraiser not only helps support Chuck and Bambi during this difficult time but also serves as a celebration of everything Chuck has given to Gwar and its community.”
The news comes more than a decade after Dave Brockie, who fronted Gwar as Oderus Urungus, died at his home in Richmond, Virginia, in March 2014. The Virginia State Medical Examiner’s Office determined that the cause of death was acute heroin toxicity and ruled it accidental.
At the time of his passing, Brockie was the last remaining original member of Gwar. He was 50 years old.
Since forming more than four decades ago, Gwar has built a reputation through its outrageous stage productions, grotesque costumes, graphic live performances and satirical approach to heavy metal, performing as alien warriors bent on conquering and destroying humanity.
